Intro to Processes – OM in the News

Impact of Wage Increase for California Fast Food Workers

Governor Newsom signed into law a rapid pay hike for fast food workers, increasing their minimum wage from an average of around $16/hour, to $20/hour, effective on April 1, 2024.

While some workers may be happy, the $20/hour rate is predicted to wreak havoc on the restaurants that must pay it.

Video Spotlight:

California McDonald’s franchisee group expresses concern over states new wage bill (Sept 15, 2023, CNBC Television)
Newsom signs law to raise minimum […]

By Lisa M. Spencer|2023-11-20T07:10:09+00:00November 26, 2023|Tags: automation, minimum wage, productivity, robotics, supply chain|

Process Management: How Wax Figures Are Made

Making wax figures is a form of art, but it also utilizes strict quality controls to make sure that each one looks just like the famous person it represents.

The slow and painstaking process employs highly skilled workers to yield the most realistic results possible!

Video Spotlight:

How It’s Made: Wax Figures (Sept 10, 2021, Science Channel)

This post is based on the YouTube video by the Science Channel in the spotlight. Image source: 360b/Shutterstock

Discussion Questions:

1. At what […]

By Lisa M. Spencer|2023-10-04T06:58:37+00:00October 4, 2023|Tags: process selection, quality control|

The First Watch Made in the U.S.A. since 1969

J.N. Shapiro’s Resurgence model boasts the “Made in the U.S.A.” label on its movement.

This means that all or almost all the components must be made in the United States. With a combination of science, art, and great attention to detail from design to production, the company hopes to revive the US watchmaking industry and bring back its glory days. As the orders keep coming, the company has expanded its capacity and is optimistic about future growth.

Video […]

By Corinne M. Karuppan, Ph.D.|2023-09-06T23:08:35+00:00September 8, 2023|Tags: competitivness, insourcing, Kano model, lead time, process selection, product quality|

Using Repetitive Processing for Novelty Ice Cream

Chapman’s is Canada’s biggest independent ice cream manufacturer. The Video Spotlight features Chapman’s processes for making ice cream sandwiches and ice cream cones for the “novelty” ice cream market.

All of the products begin with ice cream, which follows a standardized production process. However, despite using a repetitive processing system, Chapman’s has found ways to achieve modest amounts of variety in its products.

Video Spotlight:

How It’s Made Ice Cream Sandwiches (and Cones) (June 24, […]

By Lisa M. Spencer|2023-08-20T06:17:58+00:00August 20, 2023|Tags: automation, customization, inspection, process selection, quality control, standardization|